PRINCE AND THE PASSOVER

A long, long time ago, when I decided to get into journalism, it was certainly with the noblest of intentions.

Actually, it was because journalism was the best way of getting through college without being able to stuff a basketball or throw a football, and I wanted to avoid getting drafted, but that's another story.

My mother, who always wanted the best for me, told me to be a doctor or a malpractice attorney. Since I was worried about what I would do when I became incredibly wealthy, I decided those jobs weren't right for me.

Anyway, I have learned in journalism that sometimes you have to come to the defense of people whom you would not otherwise want to share a beer with.

Thus, today, I find myself on the same side of the fence as Prince.

Normally, I would not want to be in the same time zone as Prince.

I have discussed Prince in this space before and mentioned how I couldn't understand the reason for his popularity. And yes, I read all the letters you Prince fans scribbled to me when you disagreed. I even printed some of the letters. We are democratic in this space occasionally.

To be honest, I don't care what his lyrics are supposed to say, or what his music is supposed to mean, and whether he is supposed to be sexually explicit, or whatever he does. You are free to interpret him any way you want.

In the humble opinion of your columnist, Prince's music is a bunch of awful drivel, and I think he should cut his facial hair until he learns how to grow a real moustache.

All things considered, Prince would probably be wise to try to latch onto the first available pro wrestler, which will ensure his popularity for quite some time.

Still, I would not try to stop people who decided they wanted to hear him do whatever he does. We all have our own preferences, for better or worse.

You have undoubtedly heard that the Miami City Commission, after getting heat from local religious leaders, tried to get Prince to change the date of his April 7 Orange Bowl concert.

April 7 is Easter Sunday and is also part of the Passover observance. Prince's promoters said they won't change the date.

Clergymen say they are concerned that young people will have to make a choice between Prince and observing the religious holiday. I really doubt that is a main concern.

The concert is at night. Anybody who wants to go to religious services will have the entire day. And if somebody doesn't want to attend services or doesn't want to go see Prince or just wants to stay in bed all day, that is their choice.

Religious and civic leaders have also expressed concern about the types of things Prince sings about and advocates. There would be much more reason for concern if the personal beliefs of religious leaders and politicians controlled what entertainment is made available.

Music fans didn't apply pressure to try to stop Billy Graham's eight-day crusade here. You want to go to a crusade or a bar or a rock concert, just take your pick. Very nice system we have here.

Would there have been this same kind of flap if Kenny Rogers were having a concert on Easter Sunday? If Pat Boone were playing?

No way. But because some people find Prince's "message" offensive, there was an attempt at censorship.

Prince, old buddy, I never thought I'd be on your side.

But if 65,000 people decide they want to spend money to see and hear you do whatever it is you do, that is their decision.

By the way, I'll find other entertainment more to my liking that night. That is my decision.